Chief Executive formally takes up post
Earlier this month, William Edwards formally took up post as the new Chief Executive of NHS Fife. Since starting in the role, William has been spending time across services to build a first‑hand understanding of the organisation’s day‑to‑day work. This has included visits with colleagues in A&E, maternity services, and estates and facilities, giving him valuable insight into local services and the experiences of both staff and patients.
William has also launched his weekly Chief Executive Connect updates, creating a new way to share information and support open, two‑way communication with colleagues across the organisation.
Unauthorised access by ‘urban explorers’ at Stratheden Hospital
NHS Fife is aware of individuals accessing closed and unused buildings at the Stratheden Hospital site without authorisation. This is unlawful, and Police Scotland have been alerted where incidents have been identified.
In some cases, individuals have recorded and shared images or videos on social media, which can encourage further unauthorised access, undermine site security and increase risk. These buildings are closed and clearly signposted as out of bounds due to serious health and safety risks, including unstable structures, asbestos and other hazards.
Unauthorised access constitutes trespassing and can endanger individuals, as well as impact patients, staff and visitors on the wider site. NHS Fife strongly urges people not to enter closed areas or share content that promotes unauthorised access. We will continue to work with Police Scotland and internal teams to monitor the situation and protect public safety.
Advanced pacemaker treatment now available locally
NHS Fife’s cardiology team has introduced an advanced pacemaker technique for people living with heart failure, representing a significant development in local cardiac care.
The technique uses specialist pacing methods that work with the heart’s natural electrical system, supporting a more coordinated heartbeat. For selected patients, this can improve symptoms, quality of life and long‑term outcomes. Importantly, it allows patients to access highly specialised care locally rather than travelling outwith Fife.
The work was recently featured in an STV News report at Victoria Hospital, highlighting both the expertise of the team and the benefits for patients. Further information is available Further information is available here.
New thumb joint replacement surgery
Patients in Fife with thumb arthritis are now benefitting from a new surgical option at Queen Margaret Hospital. Orthopaedic specialists have carried out the region’s first base of thumb joint replacement procedures for patients whose symptoms have not improved with non‑surgical treatment.
Thumb arthritis affects the joint at the base of the thumb, causing pain, stiffness and weakness that can make everyday tasks difficult. While treatment usually begins with non‑surgical options, surgery may be considered when these are no longer effective.
The new joint replacement procedure offers an alternative to trapeziectomy and can allow earlier movement of the thumb, with the potential for a more comfortable recovery. Several patients have already undergone the procedure, with further cases planned.
New translation function on website
NHS Fife has introduced a new translation function on its website to help more people access information online. Users can now view content in a wide range of languages, including Polish, Arabic, Romanian, Urdu and Chinese, by selecting their preferred language from the drop‑down menu at the top of each page. This supports our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Podiatry service supporting earlier detection of atrial fibrillation
NHS Fife’s podiatry service is supporting earlier detection of atrial fibrillation by checking patients’ pulses during routine appointments. This has already helped 15 people in Fife receive earlier diagnosis and treatment for heart conditions.
When an irregular pulse is identified, patients are referred directly for an ECG at Victoria Hospital, reducing delays and streamlining the pathway to care. More information is available here.
Consultation on new Burntisland pharmacy
NHS Fife is inviting the public to take part in a consultation on a proposal to open a new community pharmacy at 223 High Street, Burntisland.
Proposed opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9am to 5.30pm, and Saturday, 9am to 1pm, with the pharmacy closed on Sundays. The consultation forms part of the statutory process and provides an opportunity for people to share their views. Further information and details on how to take part are available via the consultation page.
Dementia Carers Education Programme
NHS Fife would welcome the support of elected members in promoting its Dementia Carers Education Programme.
The programme provides practical information, education and peer support for people caring for someone with dementia. Sessions last two hours and are delivered on Tuesday or Wednesday afternoons at locations across Fife. Feedback from participants has been very positive. Members are encouraged to share this opportunity with constituents who may benefit.
Managed conditions drop-in event
Elected members are asked to help promote an upcoming drop‑in information event for people living with long‑term health conditions, and their carers.
Hosted by NHS Fife Managed Clinical Networks alongside partner organisations, the event will be held on Wednesday 27 May, 10am-4pm, at Rothes Halls, Glenrothes. Attendees will be able to speak directly with professionals and support services in an accessible setting. Registration details are available here. Constituents can register here.
World-renowned surgeon observes procedure
Victoria Hospital recently welcomed Professor Vipul Patel, an internationally recognised leader in robotic urological surgery. During his visit, Professor Patel met local teams and observed a robotic radical prostatectomy in the dedicated theatre suite.
Until recently, patients requiring this procedure would have travelled outwith Fife. The visit recognised the expertise of local teams and the progress being made in specialist robotic surgery locally.
Archbishop visits Victoria Hospital
We recently had the opportunity to welcome Archbishop Leo Cushley, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of St Andrews and Edinburgh, to meet staff and patients during a visit to the Victoria Hospital. The visit provided an opportunity for the archbishop to spend time in several clinical areas across the hospital, including A&E. More information is available here.
Media statements
All formal statements and responses we issue to local and national media outlets can be accessed from the NHS Fife website here.
Board papers and statistics
NHS Fife Board
The NHS Fife Board holds meetings every two months at the Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy. Meetings have set agendas, and accompanying papers are available on our website five days before the meeting.
Papers from the latest Board meeting on 31 March can be viewed here. The next meeting takes place on Tuesday 26 May.
Performance
A wide range of research, guidance and statistical publications relating to NHS Fife can be viewed here.
Workforce
Statistics on staffing and vacancies are published quarterly by NHS Education for Scotland. The latest publication can be viewed here.